Most people put off seeing a dentist until they have a toothache, need a cavity filled or want their teeth cleaned. These dental procedures are important for good oral health, but they are not the only services that a dentist in west Los Angeles can provide. In addition to taking care of a patient’s teeth, West LA Dental Care offers Santa Monica residents a variety of cosmetic procedures that can improve the way they look and feel.
If your teeth make you feel self-conscious or embarrassed when you smile, it might be time to look into some of today’s available cosmetic options. Giving patients a smile they can be proud of takes an experienced cosmetic dentist that can understand the patient’s needs and is willing to work carefully with each person to find the best solution.
Teeth Whitening
Cigarettes, coffee, medications and the minerals in water can all affect a tooth’s color. While there are several types of over-the-counter products designed to whiten teeth, having a west LA dentist do the procedure can often be more effective.
A tooth’s surface needs to be completely covered with a whitener for a nice, uniform look. That can be difficult to do yourself. Back teeth can be particularly troublesome. In addition, over-the-counter products are not as strong as what a cosmetic dentist can provide, so taking advantage of a professional dentist in West Los Angeles can be a better option.
Misaligned, Chipped or Uneven Teeth
Even teeth that are in good condition can be uneven, chipped or misaligned. Sometimes, there can be an excess space between the teeth, or they can be cracked. A west LA dentist who specializes in cosmetic procedures can help Santa Monica patients improve these types of defects by applying special tooth-colored bonding materials, reshaping the tooth or filling in a crack.
Instead of bonding, a cosmetic dentist might also suggest using veneers to fix the excessive spaces, cover up wear, hide stains or improve the look of slightly crooked teeth. Veneers are similar to a shell that a dentist in west Los Angeles can place on the front side of a patient’s teeth. These veneers can improve a tooth’s shape as well as change the color.
In addition to bonding and veneers, a cosmetic dentist also has the option of using shaping and contouring techniques to improve the appearance of a tooth. Sometimes, a west LA dentist might use both bonding and shaping. This combination can be particular effective for overlapping teeth, teeth that are chipped or for minor bite problems.
Additional Cosmetic Possibilities
For missing teeth, two of the best long-term solutions are dental implants or bridges, depending on the condition of the teeth. Cosmetic dentistry can also correct an irregular gum line, teeth of different lengths, or jaw problems. If you live in the Santa Monica area, contacting West LA Dental today for an evaluation can be the best decision you ever made.